Thermo-chemical Processing Of Low-Density Polythene (Ldpe) Waste Into Valuable Fuel Resources Through Pyrolysis: A Sustainable Energy Recovery Approach

The persistent accumulation of non-biodegradable polythene waste poses severe environmental and ecological challenges, necessitating innovative waste management and energy recovery solutions. This study investigates the thermochemical conversion of low-density polythene (LDPE) waste into valuable fuel resources through pyrolysis. The primary objective is to evaluate the efficiency of the pyrolysis process in terms of temperature control, heating rate, residence time, and product yield. A controlled pyrolysis system was designed and utilized, consisting of a reactor vessel, gas burner, temperature controller, and collection outlets. Polythene waste samples (1kg, 2.5kg, and 3kg) were subjected to thermal decomposition, and the resulting products—pyrolytic oil, gas, and char—were analyzed. Time series analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between temperature variation and residence time. Correlation analysis between heating rate, temperature change, and residence time revealed a strong positive correlation between residence time and heating rate (r = 0.907), and an inverse relationship between temperature change and heating rate (r = -0.957). Feedstock characterization indicated a moisture content range of 0.21%–0.23% and primary composition of carbon and hydrogen. System performance analysis showed a reactor design efficiency of 73.35% and a liquid collection efficiency of 0.563%. The environmental impact assessment highlighted differences in emission characteristics, with 3kg samples yielding pyrolytic oil and char, while 2.5kg samples predominantly emitted CO₂.. Comparative analysis confirmed the potential of LDPE pyrolysis in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating carbon emissions, and promoting circular economy principles. The findings underscore the feasibility of converting waste polythene into alternative energy sources, contributing to sustainable waste management and energy security. Future research should focus on optimizing reactor efficiency and exploring catalytic enhancements to improve fuel quality and yield.